Hate the change to 48 minutes. 40 mins is stupid, if they move to 40 minutes agree with the other post in the other thread, one import is all you need. Otherwise with teams like Geraldton (or slammers last year) you'll have 2 yanks, 1/2 naturalized yanks and a fringe NBL player getting paid and you'll see 1-2 aussie guys on each team getting court time.

Also if the 40 minute game comes in, surely the salary cap has to be reduced in line.

It might also reduce the quality of import we get. Heaps of imports come to this league to prove themselves to get gigs in higher leagues (Turner, Swing, Mcdowell) with less mins their stats won't look anywhere near as impressive.

Yeah apparently ettridge refused to shake hands with players from the Cougars and simply turned and walked away when approached. He is a sore loser and after the article in the week saying how Cockburn staff don't like him, it's because when Cockburn beat them at Cockburn he made comments to players and staff after the game which caused drama down there when Cockburn won the minor premiership.

Stating "hope you enjoy this win cause it won't happen again b$6ches"And other fruitful language comments.

The guy is the worst loser and the fact people in the league continue to love him is beyond me. Name a time he has coached a team that he hasn't had a good team already around him and money pumped in to get players. The year he wasn't there was the year they didn't have money to get imports, or wildcats guys etc. poor seb salinas had to ride it out, then magically the next year imports, players from other clubs are poached, wildcats guys join the team and look who decided to coach again.

Ohhhh guys I love Ben Ettridge he's such a gentleman of the sport. I loved knowing that after the game he went around the corner and broke his clipboard over his knee, I love he didn't shake anyone's hands and congratulate a Cockburn team that was not picked to win anything after losing Gavin field.

Back on track, I would prefer to see them keep 48 minute games but it really doesn't make sense unless the SBL is becoming a D-D-league for the NBA..

I would also like to see either

a) Playoffs are 1 game throughout using the AFL style top teams get second chance systemor b) Grand Final is also a 3 game series, makes no sense that the quarters and semis are 3 games then for the most important series its only 1 game.

clubs cant talk to any players for 2 weeks after the season finishes Harrison. there would be talks happening of course , what about coaches any clubs looking for coaches ? I think the most interesting club in the off-season could be the flames. with the land brothers gone and there women not quite getting to the big dance.

Ettridge is overrated as a coach. The Cougars shot 1/9 from the 3pt line for the game and never once had to face a zone. He cracks under pressure every time his team gets challenged. I witnessed it first hand in both Cockburn losses this season.

This is not new behaviour for Ettridge. He has done the walkoff/no handshake before and nobody batted an eyelid.i guess when you do it on a bigger stage it becomes a bigger deal

One thing we know is that sports can uncover the true character of a person. In the case of Ettridge, when you win you are the first one over to shake hands. When things dont go your way you walk off and show a lack of character.

This is where you would hope that the leadership at Joondalup would guide and mentor their young successful coach in the appropriate manner to conduct himself in situations such as this.

the total disheartened look on Ettridge and kinder in the stands and the set up crew and the hashtags and green blood and all the Greg hire statuses and the new stadium and money that goes in to the program and how the wolves even though the Cougars were minor premiers and the number 1 team all year.

The wolves were still tipped to win by everyone and the bookies on bet 365. Without field, Prince returning late to season and Thomas still bearing injuries along with McIntyre who has played through bad knees all season.

All this culminates in to such a sweet feeling for cougars players and fans everywhere. green blood must have bled out cause the Cougar pack took a good ol chunk outta therm

I know both Giants imports from this past season have signed contracts with teams in Europe. As we know those seasons typically go untill April at least.

Holman being a player-coach would for sure be out the window and him returning as a player would also be questioned as I dont know if the Giants would want to wait an additional 2 months for there stud to arrive.

Goodluck's return? That will be interesting. He could be a solid SBL starter so it would be a big lose if he does return home.

Yeah to be honest it cost me a round of drinks with my mates, I said at half time Wolves will come out in a zone.Nothing. $40 down the drain.U need to go to plan B.He didn't make any adjustments just keep bombing from deep with either ISO plays or trying to get alley-oops (worked a few times).I don’t know the full story about the end of the game but I did see Ettridge turn his back on the Cougars Captain as he went to shake hands, bad form, no one likes losing but show a little bit of class and shake the opposition hands.

The Wolves players were nothing but respectful after the game. McIntyre got turned away by ettridge but Thomas got to catch up to the assistant but didn't even bother chasing down Ettridge as he saw what went on with McIntyre. I'm sure DT would have loved to shake his hand and give him a reply to what was said at the end of the regular season.

Anyone heard much about Geraldton situation. I thought I heard that Trahair would be looking elsewhere as Gero couldnt give him the things they promised. I also heard that some of the players were in the same boat. Looking to get out and look for better situations.

The fact that different leagues around the world play games with different lengths - 40 mins, 48 mins, some play quarters, some have 2 x 20 minute halves - shows clearly there is no one single rule for how long a game of basketball should go for.

Which is why, if it is a matter of choice, I think the SBL would do well to keep things how they are. There is no TV factor at play and 48 minutes gives more players more playing time and fans more basketball.

Who cares if the NBL went to 40 minutes? And why should the SBL change to 'fall in line?' If anything, I feel the product is weakened, not strengthened, when the game is shortened.

All the good imports in the SBL could play in the SEABL. The gap between the best players isn't huge. There is more depth in the SEABL though off the bench etc, and the shorter games means depth matters less.

MVP considerations: Nichols, Alexander and Land are the favourites for me. DemunyckAdekponya

Because of the voting system in the SBL the top team players Davis, Goode, Field, Lane etc will poll well but have a tough time winning because they share votes with good team mates. Goode is a rough chance with Field missing a few games, but there is a reason he wasn't selected as an all star.

Why wouldn't the coach select him so he receives the recognition for his resume and ego then pull him from playing like every other coach did with their players? About 10 players received All star selection and didn't take part in the game across the mens and the womens due to injury. They still get the all star, and are replaced with another player.

Yeah the reason for Goode not playing in allstar game is not a secret. He was told by cougars that he wouldnt be playing because of his injury. I heard they informed league well before the game selections went out. They nursed him through the first part of season as it was.

How stupid to say he wasn't goode enough. The dumbest single comment in the FORUM history. The guy was carrying an injury for the first part of the year and the cougars were simply resting him on a very smart level. He didn't get selected in the first 5 but Parsons wanted to put him in, however he was told at the one practice that due to injury that he was required to rest. Parsons made sure he was healthy at the correct time of the year and look what happened.

Championship!!!!!

If you think Marcus Goode was not an allstar yet Brandon McGill was then you my good sir are an absolute moron, and there are many others who didn't deserve allstar also compared to Marcus.

Exactly right Brandon McGill Allstar... They had to select someone from Kalamunda and he just got lucky thanks to the league trying to be fairLets remember Parsons dropped Brandon because he wasn't Goode enough

If you read what I said properly, i am arguing for him being an all star. I am saying it was stupid to not include him, and then pull him from the game due to injury.Just because he gets nominated as an all star DOES NOT MEAN HE MUST PLAY. Do you guys understand that?

Hobbs was an all star this year. But weird, guys, he didn't play in the game... I know this must be confusing for you..

Exactly, he was let go and man what a smart move from Cockburn to get Najee Lane back rather than McGill. Cougars wouldn't have barely made the quarters with McGill on the team. Kalamunda have already resigned him.

Cougars will need to retool next season and I am sure they will be up there again. Gavin will be back and they just need to get two decent imports and they are set again.

Im not confused. I get what you are saying. They just avoided that situation of having him selected and then having to pull him and inform someone else. Its not that hard to understand. Instead of going through the whole process they just did it quietly.Its about not making the replacement player feel like he wasnt goode enough to make it on his own without having someone pull out.

the All star game is not representative of who are actually the real All Stars of the league. Its a lets pick one from each team so everyone is a winner, let the coaches choose a couple of their own guys who they have a bias toward and some fan voting to see who the starting 5's should be.

By performance i think you could safely sayTJ Hallice was not an all star.Bobby Evans was not an all star.Marcus Barrow was not an all star.Brandon McGill was not an all star.

Then guys like Jayden Coburn ended up playing because not everyone was available. Great young prospect but was definitely not an all star.

Suns - need a team in the area.Wolves - need two teams in that area.Redbacks - cut 'em. Only get players from other clubs anyway.Flames - need a team in the area to reduce crime rates.Mandurah - cut 'em. Can go to Rocko or Bunbury.Tigers - good strong club with unlimited SBL budget.Eagles - cut'em. Perennial losers. Join Senators.Hawks - can buy one of the other clubs so cut 'em.Senators - keep 'em or be struck down by a holy bolt.Lightning - ditto

f*ing lol...and tell me ... which 5 SBL clubs are you proposing to cull from the 14 currently ^^

All the 'average' players won't be playing next year because there won't be minutes for them! Take away 8 minutes of garbage time and you instantly remove the Aaron Lopez's, Clayton Dann's, Mikey Collin's from the league...

Demuynck wouldnt be in my All SBL team personally. Team benefitted far greater from Vigor coming back into the fray, Demuynck didnt carry the team like Turner did. Though Turner was a different beast altogether.

Where does that come from. Just because they have strong junior numbers it doesn't mean they have an unlimited budget. Not like Cougars who set a budget then totally ignore it and luckily win the championship and hope the financial issues and lies are just forgotten about in time.

"WHATEVER", the single dumbest post ever. Cougars imports came out here for free and had to find work. Aussie players went out and found sponsors for themselves if they could. Club paid no one so be sure to understand what goes on before flapping them gums.

Parsons has now done two years without paying players, Lane was the only one working at the club to make money.

TVL... Aka Whatever it must be hard to see Parsons be successful when you've spent the last two years telling the world how shit he is. Goes to show how much of a good bloke he is never responding to ur bitterness, let's all be clear luck has no part in winning a championship

TVL and MVL. both as bad as each other, pretty sure it's the latter posting on here. From success breeds jealousy and they had zero to do with winning the title this year. Poison still seeping out of them

The cougars didn't have sponsors paying the players. The players had to do the work and go out and find them for themselves. Players went and found them, which in turn helped the club get more fans and signage and possible future sponsorship to bring money in to the club you NOOB!!!

The internal problems are simply people not liking other people, that is in every club. Not everyone gets a long but if it results in a championship and an increase in junior players joining the club then so be it. Andy Stewart seems to be happy having his kid there.

SO a quit crying cause willo didnt win again after pouring thousands of dollars in to the program and got an ex NBL coach and NBL player as a coach, along with so called NBL players.

BOO HOO. COUGARS simply put beat all the odds without their captain and a zero budget. read it and weep people.

Re issues for players and coaches of the champion team. Recent photos they look pretty happy to me. Why can't you just say congratulations and move on . Forget the past and move on to another great year

Who said anything about not being happy for Cockburn? They balled out this year despite all the tension. They played exceptional basketball and did what 90% of people said they couldnt do. The internal stuff is very real though. It would be great if everyone in the club could get on the same page to ensure that club had a real decent chance of repeating. Just not sure it will happen. It would be great to have everyone come back, but reality is that some players( imports) need to get some sort of payment and they probably wont from Cockburn. Its a bit tough to expect these guys to come from O/S and live on scraps.Its the same with every team that doesnt pay players. The chances of having a guy in his prime earning portion of his career coming and playing for nothing season after season is just not realistic. Either way whatever happens the Cougars have plenty to look forward to and plenty of options to help them win again.

rockinghams coaches are completed samuelson ( men ) petrick ( women ). both bunbury and Mandurah positions are open I see both advertised on web sites.not sure about any other clubs looking for coaches.

"Heard Parsons to Hawks is legit. Hawks just going thru the process advertising but it's as good as done" - Yeah nah, you're talking out of your arse mate. Hawks are expecting Nixy to reapply, they haven't given him the boot yet

grapevine news "" stirling senators going after some big names already- the 2 biggest names in the WSBL- a package deal I believe. this team will be the biggest improver in season 2017 . Clarke has had a look at the comp. he will have land as a naturalised aussie . add 2 quality imports which he will source and maybe an experienced aussie see above. LOOK OUT.

Yeah I know from experience it costs the Giants upwards of 200k each year when factoring in travel, accom etc just to compete in the League. Gero might be a bit cheaper seeing they have that wonderful bus to get them everywhere but as mentioned earlier, the two major regional teams aren't as cashed up as some would have you believe.

From our clubs perspective - Brad Samuelson Will be the Men's Head Coach in 2017 whilst Petrik will once again take control of the Women's team

Replacing Parsons in Cockburn with Matthew Van Lit would surely be the dumbest move in the history of Cockburn Basketball. From Championship to outside the 8 in one season.Surely the exodus of players from the team would follow.

Parsons has resigned from the cougars. Cougars now need to find a new coach and the organisation should be doing the right things to get money in to the club as sponsors are surely more easily attained after winning a championship.

Mathiang Muo was completely waived by Perth at the time & had nothing keeping him in the metro area. Pal is actively training with Perth right now & appears to be for the foreseeable future. He's not about to leave for a country team, especially with the Cats having an injury plagued big.

Word about is Sam Whitcomb is actually very unlikely to return to Rockingham. Its based around the constant travel rather than disharmony.

Only way Nix keeps his job at Hawks is if Parsons says he doesnt want it. Even then there will be other coaches who could be avail who would be better. Nener to Goldfields would be great. Love how the Season is 1 week finished and the rumours are already abound

Would be nice if it worked like that. Some assistants prefer it to be that way though.

Cougars: Parsons rumored to be out, only recently surfacing that he is linked to PL. Wolves: Assume Etto is back if he wants the job. Tigers: Stephen Blacks job if he wants it? Buccs: Rumors Trahair wants to move back home?Flames: Samuelson announced as HCSenators: Ellis contracted correct? Redbacks: Lackovic could go around again, wouldn't be suprised to see a change though after several under-performing years. PL: Rumors Nixy is not guaranteed to return, Parsons?East Perth: Joe Allen should be the coach again. Slammers: Job has been advertisedLightning: Oatman contractedGiants: Job advertisedSuns: Clarke contractedMandurah: Job advertised

If Parsons resigned then the Cougars are in serious turmoil. Coaches of the Championship team, who could quite possibly repeat, dont leave a team if there isnt something nasty happening.They just dont. I feel for the players in this mess. They played their asses off last year for a coaching team they believed in and now after winning they may not get a chance to go back to back. Shame

Interesting as to where and who these Parsons rumors started...He resigned. The clubs budget for restricted players next season was a huge factor.By all accounts the playing group are very disappointed he's leaving.MVL junior will not be head coach of Cockburn next season. Front runners will be a ex-captain of the club along with a former head coach of the MSBL program.

Harris is all about his son playing. It must of burned him knowing that even his influence couldnt get Jake on the court. Now he may gets his chance albeit on a team that if the rumours are true is going to be a bottom 8 side.

How many of those players will be back? Sheldon retired, Peseva at College, both imports unlikely to come back, Field coming back from a major injury, Della and DT are about the only ones that have any juice. A couple of good young guys may get some minutes but that roster is depleted.

Giants need an experienced hard nosed coach but i doubt they will be able to sell that to any takers, and will only be able to attract a rookie head coach from Perth Metro - hearing Adam Nener early on but still early days where rumours are all the rage.

cougars will still have Della, DT, Field, Hayto, and other young guys, along with the possibility to recruit Aussie players and surely a few imports within reason. They wont be wooden spooners and will be in the 8 surely.

Doubt that happens this year. They have already played Cairns twice and then Geraldton Twice and then 36ers in Bunbury. Then they head to the pre season tournament in like 2 weeks. That's plenty for a pre season.

Heard from an excellent source a while back of Parsons to PL. I know most of the Hawks boys are sick of Nixy running everything through Hobbs so they would embrace the chance to get Parsons on board. Although they have pushed the top teams in the quarters the last two years, Perry Lakes have seriously under achieved since Shawn Dennis left.

I don't think Hawks have underachieved under Nix. Some imports make some locals look stronger than they really are and Hobbs missed about half this season. After B Purser the local talent drops off pretty quickly and there hasn't been much pushing up. They are really weak in the point position and this is why they don't get far in finals.

Hawks need a change. They need new imports, new coaching ideas and a new direction. Whoever gets that job will have a bit of work to do. They need to recruit some locals just as much as they have to recruit imports.

For those who didn't know, the Wildcats played the Buccs in Gero tonight in a pre-season game.

Wildcats were without Martin, Knight and Hire but had everyone else including Knight's injury replacement Lucas Walker.

Buccs had three-quarters of their SBL team, including Hussey, Cook, Ralph and Wundenburg, but were missing Barrow, Adekponya and Wrensted. To counter that they added Damien Scott, Chudier Pal and Rhys Vague.

I heard somewhere Trahair could be headed to the Giants? dont know if there is any truth in it.

Parsons and the Cougars players did an outstanding job to overcome adversity this year. All the internal issues in the club going on around them, losing their MVP to injury and beating the teams in playoffs most people were saying they had no hope in the world of beating. They should hold their heads high.

Isnt it ironic that basketball by nature is all about team work. When we roll the balls out to the young under 9's and coach them in mini hoop, its all about how team work is important. We teach them how to work together to achieve success and that disunity results in losing. Why is it the leadership in a basketball club, which should all be about team work, cannot work together?

Losing Charlie after winning a championship and going through some rebuilding and now losing Parsons after winning a championship shows there are issues keeping them from sustained success. Instead of looking at repeating the same process and outcomes and looking at budgets with the same heads in the room they should look at getting a "team" together who can really agree on the way forward. Get back to what the sport is all about in the first place.

Parsons will be successful wherever he ends up and will probably stay in the next place long term as they will get behind him. Parsons is a great recruiter too, you watch players from Cockburn and from every other club lining up to play for him.

Totally agree with the above post however some thought has to be given to the management side of the clubs. They don't run on thin air and the budget has to be maintained.

No idea what is 100% accurate but you look at the 2012 Cougars championship and the quality of imports they had, then the subsequent down years following. There was a fair bit of rumour about over spending that year sacrificing the future.

It's an age old argument, sustained success vs going all in on one year.

I couldn't agree more with that post above. The sad part is, ego, self involvement and personal gain comes into play and then our "team sport" becomes all about what one person, family, group etc can get for themselves. But at what cost? Where is the line drawn and when does anyone say enough. There's for the genuine good of the club and then there's for the good one the individual.

It says a lot that a club loses its championship winning coach less than 2 weeks after winning said championship, with a team that no one thought could go all the way. I would think a coach like Parsons would be worth it to keep but if the cougars are really letting him go then they deserve to be the laughing stock of the league. And if he does truly go to the Hawks then it's a Good move for him and maybe there he will have the support and such behind him that he should have had to keep him at Cockburn.

Cougars didn't blow over budget this year, they got two imports dirt cheap and lane was the only one on a sports visa and even then he had to work at the stadium. Goode flat out did nothing and ruined his chances of getting work at places.

Cougars had a budget and Parsons adhered to it, however from rumour Goode ran up costs that put them over budget to an extent but nothing the club cant get out of. The club should be doing everything right now to get more sponsors and promote the club using the championship as a springboard to do so, the Aussies returning to the club will keep the Cougars in the top 8 for sure.

why would any player who can choose were they want to play now consider Cockburn? Avg facilities, just lost their Coaching staff, Best player injured and probably not likely to have any decent imports being signed. As much as they still have in DT, Della, Field what else can they offer? We know money wont be paid. Think Cockburn screwed the pooch on this. Instead of winning now and helping to breed a continued winning culture they are happy to sit and hope that the success will just bring in the sponsors and player. There is NO incentive for players to come.

"The club should be doing everything right now to get more sponsors and promote the club using the championship as a springboard to do so, the Aussies returning to the club will keep the Cougars in the top 8 for sure. "

The club cant even keep their 2016 CHAMPIONSHIP WINNING COACH!

2012 they couldnt keep their CHAMPIONSHIP WINNING COACH!

I dont think sponsors are going to solve the issue they have internally within their leadership group.

^^^^ bingo. Let's see if they wake up to themselves before it's too late. I'm guessing announcements would be made if he had signed with Hawks? So until it's been made public they still have a hope in hell to fix their screw ups and keep their coach. Big talk about wanting to have a winning culture, not enough action to do the right thing by those that GIVE them the championships. Like the person above said, the team sport is being ruined by power hungry people who just want to claim "mine". If they truly cared about "their" club wouldn't they want to see it succeed? Instead you just seem to hear about the infighting for control by the ones who want everything for themselves and don't care about the greater good.

Hawks only just opened up the coaching search. I highly doubt they will make a decision until after they meet some candidates. The rumour is Parsons, but they would obviously be looking at more than one candidate just in case. Nothing done until someone signs a contract.

What has lakovic done since he's been coach at perth? No grand final appearances, huge player turnover, the failed curtin stunt which from all reports was his decision to play there. A lot of money spent for zero in return, why isn't he being held responsible?

trahair to stay in geraldtonan ex-club captain to coach the giantsvan lit def chance to coach cougsnener to coach slammersutley to coach magic

Why would anyone accept 2 imports of lesser quality when they can go somewhere else and have the pick of imports and new recruits available without the budget constraints. Thats one of the dumbest things posted in this forum.

'Why would anyone accept 2 imports of lesser quality when they can go somewhere else and have the pick of imports and new recruits available without the budget constraints. Thats one of the dumbest things posted in this forum.'

Oh really??Because with Cockburn's local talent your already half way there.You will basically have what they won the GF with (minus Lane and Goodes), then adding Gavin plus two solid but not star imports.Or you can go to Mandurah or Slammers take two star imports and see how that works for you....

HAHAHA tell us who this talent is? Outside of Gav, Rhett and DT. who are you going to rely on? Pesava is away for a chunk of the season, McINTYRE will probably retire, Hayto may walk away as well. Please dont say SVL, Holmes as they are nice kids, but hardly talent.

also dont mention the 3-4 guys who warmed the bench this year. Outside of Jake Knight and Mandic not one of them is ready to contribute in any way,shape or form. It could be a really rough spot for Cockburn if you lose your coach and number 1 recruiter.

Grand Final MVP: Najee Lane (192-G/F-88) of Cockburn C. Player of the Year: Cooper Land (205-F/C-88) of Rockingham F. Most Improved Player of the Year: Jayden Coburn (191-G) of Stirling S. Domestic Player of the Year: Matthew Adekponya (194-G-90) of Geraldton B. Import Player of the Year: Cooper Land (205-F/C-88) of Rockingham F. Rookie of the Year: Daniel Grida (195-G/F) of Lakeside L. Defensive Player of the Year: Ben Purser (201-F-90) of Perry Lakes H. Coach of the Year: Matthew Parsons of Cockburn C.

Interesting to note mr personality of the year random picked the two most improved awards, the women's coach of the year, referee of the year, had Parsons and Land as dark horses for there respective awards - decent effort seeing he did that over two months ago. Who has shwagmayer wining the women's MVP though?

I'm not insinuating they mean anything. Take everything on Eurobasket.com with a grain of salt. Every section on Eurobasket does these kind of awards. I was tasked with doing the inaugural Australian state league awards last year. I've done the Australian and New Zealand NBL awards on there too for four-five years now. Whoever said "they look great on the resume" is kidding themselves. I'm actually surprised anyone even looks at Australiabasket.com let alone cares about the trivial website award winners. Overall though, I was pretty spot on

I surely would hope a coach wouldn't take HOBBBS unless its late or even during the season and something has happened with a VISA / or Injury. Imports get picked apart after 2-3 years.

All imports, well 90% of them who come out can play the game, but what separates them is the TYPE of person they are. I think HOBBS is to risky for me to take onto a team where chemistry is important. If thats fair or not, the import spot is to important for a coach to go that route in my opinion.

*Nichols done at Slammers, looking at move to big smoke or even kalgoorlie*Word from mandurah is Setty could be playing for another club next year*Pal looking at all offers before committing to Flames, Eagles and Senators interested*Conrad Francis to be new head coach at Cougars, much to disappointment of VL fam*Nener & Miegel favorites for Giants job*Trahair to choose between Buccs and Magic offers, club with most free beers post game likely to be the victor*Tigers making Najee Lane considerable offer to lure away from the champs, Ownership of Jake Burtson's mole believed to be key to bargaining agreement

He gives you a starting 5 man, this will allow your import to be something other then that. Teams like Gero/Flames/Eagles who can do this have an advantage has you can go smaller with your imports if wanted.

Great news on Lackovic. Now can the idiot haters shut up for another year, I'm sick and tired of having to scroll for so long to get past all your obsessive compulsive, manic disordered vitriol. You are obviously a player who wasn't good enough for his team i am guessing

never underestimate the ability for $$ to be found at willo to recruit. If they want pal, they will find a way to pay him. The interesting thing will be if any of kyle, scott, bowie, johnson, cody and clarke will all be willing to take pay cuts to bring him in or whether they will just find cash elsewhere.

One thing that previous poster was right about was if they had a high clabire big they are clear contenders. Funches had a lot of hype but was a bit of a bust.

The thought of how tough they would be with a player of the calibre of Daniel Alexander, Cooper Land or even Marcus Goode is scary. Pal would be a great fit, cost them less and get a good result. Even someone like a Ben Smith from Mandurah would be a real asset to them.

Is Kyle still headed over East? If he does go there's a big draw card for other players to go to Willo gone... If Kyle does go there's every chance Scott will be out as well and back at Cockburn to play with Gav Field.

Makes you wonder what the priorities are at the Redbacks these days with the Mens Team. Seems that being a master stroker of egos is more important than being able to Coach well and get the most from the available talent.

Compare this to Mark Utley's record. Who was let go by Flames this year??

Don't think this is correct as Utley commented on the basketball radio show after flames were out of the race for the finals that he would not be coaching next year and needed a rest. Also from what one of the players told me apparently he told the players the same thing at the start of the season and also at the end and that once the Land brothers were finished so was he. Does not sound like flames let him go, sounds like it was his decision to stop coaching.

Regarding the copy and paste of Nashs book or whatever, every coach in this league copy and pastes offenses and defenses they saw elsewhere. How many coaches do you think come up with a completely original offense or Defense in the SBL? I'll tell you right now, absolutely none and NBL is the same.Not sure where you are going with the comment but like everyone else of course Nik rips off great ideas from elsewhere. This doesn't make him a fraud if it did so would every other coach be one too

Other than boast about his credentials and spend money like its going out of fashion what has Lako done for Perth? He lied to players about payments, He forced them to go to Curtin which lost them money, He alienated the players he did have. Lets face it he isnt a very good coach. Nothing personal its just fact. If he loses the Perth gig he wont get another gig in the league.

It is clear he cant coach, you can see that in his results over the past few years.I dont know abt the inner sanctions of the club, but results alone from the outside as a coach he has to be a fail.Im sure he might a nice guy, players may like/or not like him, gift of the gab etc etc..But at the end of the day, he isnt getting results, and he has had some talented, talented squads.

Regards the post on UtleyAfter the loss in gero Utley said "I think I may be done"Maybe the club should have go to him first rather than work in rumour and innuendo!How can a coach be successful with a local program and be replaced, without being actually asked? What actually has Samuelson done to take over at SBL level. By what I have heard doesn't sound like he is done as a coach he was sacked!

Spurs forever obviously you were there? Only going by what I was told by a few players and also what I heard on radio. And obviously you are not from the club otherwise you would know exactly what Samuelson has done not only for the club but also for state teams too. He is the one who has coached most of the current SBL local players from development right through. Everything they have learned they have learned from Brad so think he does have some experience. Did Utley win a championship? No. He has had a few chances with some of the best teams in the league quite a few years ago and lost. Sometimes change is good for players and coaches as they do become stale and complacent. Utley did a great job during his time at Rockingham but he has had 7 or 8 years I think to prove himself. People are great at throwing out comments without knowing the true or correct stories or listening to heresay. I don't know exactly what happened but I have worked on committees and know what the gossipers are like. Like I say the general consensus was that he did not want to coach anymore as he had had long enough and now all of a sudden he has been sacked apparently.

Flames recent record under Utley2012 & 2013 Didn't make Finals2014 & 2016 Lost in Quarters2015 Lost in SemisFive years and only one season of note, even then they couldn't make it to the grand final. Whether people like to admit it or not a change was needed down in Rockingham in both coaching staff and imports as their men's program had become too stale and predictable. Time will tell if they have made the right decision with Danielson, who has struggled for success at Nationals level with decent WA state teams

Looking at the talent Utley had on the team, the results they had are about where you would have predicted.. maybe even a little better. Knocking off the Cougars last year etc. A decent contingent of aussies, albeit missing a little bit of depth, but still top 4-6 quality. They probably needed an import with more scoring punch than Taylor Land to be legit title threats.

The year flames had Carlin Hughes, Adam Caporn and 2 great imports and other good players, they finished 1st I think at the end of the regular season and still did not win with Utley coaching. Utley has been at flames twice now.

Geros saviour is that they will always have cash to buy teams, what they need is coaching stability and considerable junior development over a number of yearsGiants problems are no decent Australians, no locals coming through, no coach willing to put in the hard workLeague should be worried when the three major country teams are all coachless, talentless and unless something drastically changes - soon to be cashless

If Gero can keep securing the A grade "local" (Lewis/Akeponya mould) they will be fine.Wunders/Ralph/Akeponya and two solid imports you will always be in the mix.What will take them to the next level is the depth which is not so easy for the country teams.If Cook is naturalised then looking at potential line upImportImportAkeponyaCookWundersHusseyRalphThat team will take some beating!!

Giants need that A-grader Aussie (Like Muo last year) to be competitive. The eastern states experiments of the past not going so well, but at least they giving it a crack.

Yeah and it doesn't hold a candle to mid-2000s NBL during Kings/Bullets/Tigers era. Did you even watch back then? Those three top teams battling it out was super quality unlike anything of recent years.

Ok a message to the Lako haters- why don't you put your name to your posts? You seem intent on bagging him and everyone is entitled to their opinion. It is hard to give credibility to anonymous posters.They keep hiring him and Perth and his players do seem to like him. If all of the above written is true why do they keep hiring him? Personally I've seen his tea play many times in the pats few years and his teams are always disciplined, in great condition and play hard. Nothing wrong with that.Even if you hate him, you must admit he has bought some wicked imports over and who wouldn't want to watch a Ray Turner, Lee Roberts, et al.

Why are we even talking about that flog Lackovic anyway when the best coach in the league over the past 2 years has just quit the club he won a championship with. I would think that is more worthy of a mention than the walking ego

That has been confirmed, they will both field D league teams as a curtain raiser to the SBL games in the country road trips. Adds a bit of cost to the travelling teams but it's very worth it for the league.

Forde would have been around the same age when he first coached Flames

I hope the Giants will support him as he finds his feet. They have had some fairly competent coaches preceding him and none have been able to have any notable success to date barring Haney when he had Bowie, Muo and Holmen practically 3 import/pro players

they need some stability in the role and invest in developing local talent

Its got to be a seriously bad situation at Cockburn, a championship winning and 2x coach of the year doesn't just up and leave also not many metro jobs around so it would be sad to not see a coach like him in the league next year

The quicker Cockburn kill the poison that is the VL family the better off they will be. Nothing but a bunch of hate filled, envious bunch of nobodies that are grasping to whatever shred of power they can get hold of so they can stay relevant. Such a shame for the Cougars that Parsons has left. Don't be surprised if some players follow him to where he goes. Nener or Nix would do ok there, not sure about Davey, Thwaites nowhere near at that level yet

Lol Parsons leaving is terrible for Cockburn. He loved that club. He loved the players, the fans, the support staff. What he didnt love was the gossip about him, the personal agendas of the board and the constant hassles. He is a coach. You should of not tried to bully him and just let him do what he does best - Coach .The jnrs worth developing got their chances. A couple didnt because they didnt put in the work.

That's what happens when you have a bunch of alcoholics making decisions.I often wonder why the cops don't breathalyse anyone leaving that stadium on an sbl training night say after 9pm- they would have a field day

why does everyone keep pumping up the SEABL? The better players in the SBL could easily play in that league. The only difference between the two is the that after the first 5-6 players on the team the SEABL benches are better. If the SBL had the same type of money in it the quality would be the same.

Except it does for the players that deserve to be paid yea everyone gets something hence why the salary cap is higher but the top 4-5 players get similar contracts to the top players in SBL I would know ;)

Holmen's season in Europe finishes in May, which is halfway thru the SBL season. Why would an SBL club want an import for only the 2nd half of the season? Unless they are loaded with Aussies, and I can't think of any 'southern' teams loaded with good Aussies.

Didn't say they were close, but they aren't adverse to one another. Holmen's biggest issue was with shouldering too much of the load and Bowie this year was content with not being the only scoring option.

hahahah Jem Wolfie ties herself to some of the worst basketball players possible, who seem to sell to her they are any good at basketball. Remember seeing her looking for coaches and she chose some absolute bums to teach her and she thought they were good.

Surely shes been copping a few from the wanna be ballers in perth who continually think they are any good.

HAHAHAH JEM WOLFIE, NEXT JOKE PLEASE. Why is she even being brought up in an SBL page? Trash basketball player, if she even plays basketball at any level and as a person she seems to be such a great judge of character. :)

3rd Coach in almost the same amount of years coming up for the Buccs.. Hopefully they retain Adekponya as he was a gun and good for the league. Wundenberg should go on but you wonder how many years he has left. Ralphy still late 20's, could play well into 400+ games.

If Cook becomes Aussie, with two good imports and possibly Adekponya PLUS the move to 40 mins reducing their depth issues they are going to be a very tough team.

So basically Perry Lakes have got the pick of whats avail out there, because unless you are desperate you arent going to Cockburn to deal with that mess or you arent going to Slammers due to the whole country thing without some sort of other job to top it up. Some good coaches will be without jobs.

The thing about cockburn is at least they have good aussies to at least keep them in a steady place within the SBL program sense. Gavin, DT and Della are old enough and smart enough to hold a group of guys together and the young boys coming through look up to them and trust them.

I beg to differ, we had champagne results this year on a beer budget. Players who deserved to get paid, went out and found money from sponsorship's. The two Americans didn't get paid at all. And the crap the team had to go through dealing with Goode was beyond insane, yet still a Champagne results for the boys from the DEN!!!

He wasn't paid. That's the absolute truth. If he says any different he's a liar. He blew any money he was given on shit and then cried poor. He threatened to leave numerous times throughout the year but never followed through

lol He used to walk out of after game functions with trays of food and drinks. They never let him struggle. One way or the other he got paid, whether its a donation or a few cooked meals or flat out cash. I dont know why people lie about it. Its the same in every club. Its not like the SBL even bother to check.

bitch and moan about Goode all you want but without him Cockburn dont win a championship. He was as important to the team as any other player on that squad. Was he immature - yes, Was he highly talented - Yes. To throw shade at the guy now he has gone is absolute horseshit. Especially as most of it is coming from someone on the Cockburn board or associated to it. You guys are so gutless to blame anything on the departed people when most of the crap starts with you.

True Cockburn do not win without Goode. I remember a game toward the end of the regular season where he seemed to be having a very serious discussion with that bearded alcoholic that loiters at the end of the bench.. Money talk I guess

So the worst kept secret is out with 40 min games confirmed. Also Kal, Gero and SW with DLeague teams should be interesting. How do you even roster that without blowing the travel budget. DLeague not aligned with SBL fixture.

Good move though, Kal, Gero in particular have nothing to offer their 8th+ players other than a few beers at the end of the night. Good for the SBL.

Can't understand all the saltiness on the comments of SBL. I mean one ex players pipin up about kids not getting a run...give them a run at D League or 20s. SBL isn't for 'giving kids a run'. Give MarionKart another spin son.

Goode is an extreme liar and in many cases made unwanted movements towards any women. He was not paid a cent and for him to say he wants to be paid $600 is hilarious because if a team wants to pay that money for a player who plays little to no defence and causes so much animosity within a team then feel free.

He was a rude, obnoxious and unsportsmanlike individual who never shook hands with opponents and even in the Grand Final had no class to shake peoples hands.

Goode was a great player offensively and defensively he could play when he felt like it. Which granted may not have been often. Team mate wise he was a different cat and never truly adjusted to the Aussie way of life. He was socially awkward but its something as a team you can push aside when you have an ultimate goal.

We were not winning it without him, like many of our pieces we put together in that team. He was not paid from the club or outside sources either. Next season will be an interesting one and depends on who coaches and what we can get import wise will be a good measuring stick as to how far we will go.

I wish him all the best and if he plays somewhere else, then good on him it will be fun to play against him. I know Davis and Huntington had a fun time guarding him ;)

But whats done is done and the Cougars are still the 2016 SBL CHAMPS!!! NEXT TOPIC

This 40 minutes per game is ridiculous in my eyes. the 48 min per game was something that made our league unique and stand out compared to everywhere else world wide. You now have less players on a bench and development is now centered around a D-League. So now we expect our young adults who will spend most of their saturday nights out at Metros and other clubs getting plastered to now play in a proper league on a Sunday.

The games are meant to be more exciting? so your telling me the NBL brand of basketball now is more exciting than in the 90's?. 48 min games gave coaches more time to place players and strategise how to get younger guys in, now it will be play all the guys who are there 40 mins per game. Leaving little to no time for anyone else.

^ article published on 13 Oct 2016 @ 9:41AM by Cougars bench-warmer who thinks he made it by getting on the court in blow-out wins. If you aren't Goode enough, play D-League and prove you can make the main 8. Are people honestly THIS retarded. Coaches will still have to manage fouls AND minutes. SBL isnt a participation league. Go down to Wally Hagan on a weeknight if you really want to 'give the kids a run'

Bench warmer HAHAH :) Not quite mate. I am someone who believes Basketball was created as a 48 min game and it allows for fatigue to set in and great coaching strategy. The game was invented for 48 minutes. We will now be offering a product that is short but doesn't mean higher quality by any standards.

We continually change rules to suit irrelevant outside forces. I mean what a pathetic excuse, so families can get home earlier. The SBL in the 90s was pumping and times were the same, families still arrived through the doors and enjoyed them selves. 10:30pm is not destroying family lifestyles.

right... and cricket was created for Test matches. Yet I GUARANTEE you every major cricketing body in the world is looking at ways to implement short versions of the game. And your gonna be just shocked when the IOC announces 3x3 in the Olympics soon...because heaven forbid, if we alter how basketball was MEANT to be played. like every other league around the world...

I think in time you will find the League will also start looking at earlier tip off times on Saturday fixtures. 4 & 6 or 5 & 7. Allows for under 12 wabl players to get home at a decent hour and clubs can have social functions afterwards.

Whilst it is sad to see the shorter games come into effect, we as a state have to move with the times and not always be known as the "Wait Awhile" state, catching up on every single thing that is usually implemented on the East coast way before us.

Things I'm looking forward to in 2017:

* Mandurah playing out of their redeveloped stadium under new coach A Trahair* A sad farewell to the JBS... With the Arena extension now officially underway* Up to six new coaches in charge across the League will make for some interesting first few weeks, which could be vital come mid to late July for Finals aspirations* Us as a state getting to showcase our Basketball Community as Josh Nipps and his Stirling Senators host the 2017 U16 National Championships* New imports, love them or hate them - with the shortened game length... Recruiting the right fit for each respective team and club, just became a heck of alot more important.

Na screw 40 minute. 48 min games had a whole different type of scenario to deal with involving player fatigue. Its the reason why I prefer to waych SBL over NBl. There are more variables that come into it. Now they can pretty much run those guys 35-40 mins.

Sounds like some players don't like the idea of going to 40 mins as it effects their court time. You need to consider it on other levels as well boys not just that which serve your opinion.Maybe now someone would at least try to play some Defense in this league for starters! With a more attacking defensive style all Players would still play. Or you want to tell me that running back to the 3 point line and playing passive defense on all screens is what you see in the nba. Try traps at on balls, switches- never see that in the poorly developmentally disabled SBL. 40 minute games forces coaches to consider to attack with defense and could be the best thing that has happened in a long time.Greens37- yes right after you

I do love how instead of following suit with the best league in the world (NBA, for those moronic NBL fans) and the most entertaining, we instead follow suit after the rest of the FIBA nations where basketball is dying. Or lets go after the NBL and lets follow a league that has struggled to stay afloat in recent years.

RESEARCH!! as you can tell internet tells many stories. The game has been played 48 mins world wide for a long time and then FIBA decided to change it. Its the shortest Professional sport in the world. So lets make it even shorter now!!

"This story begins December 21,1891, on a cold winter day in Springfield, Massachusetts, USA. A phys-ed teacher by the name of James Naismith was tasked with creating a way of ensuring that the star athletes of the YMCA he was working at could remain active during the freezing cold winter months.

He came up with an idea of a game that involved a wooden peach basket and an occasion football (similar to a soccer ball). It required two teams of 5 players who for the next 48 minutes would try to get the football into the basket on the opposite side of the indoor stadium.."

Initial Rules NBA 1946Only professional league in the world at the time.

• 60-game schedule followed by championship playoffs involving the top three teams in each division.• Games are 48 minutes long.• Players are allowed six personal fouls.• Every time you scored, the other team is given possession of the ball.• Zone defenses are allowed.

Not sure but surely we should be following the most successful league in the world since 1946 over a FIBA controlled body that has ruined basketball world wide. There was a reason basketball was so big in the 80s and 90s. It wasnt because of FIBA.

For the people bagging SBL defence, pretty sure all teams hard show, switch and rotate hard, they practice all that stuff and much more. Many teams full court press at times and others for the entire game such as Kalamunda, Lakeside and Rockingham. It is called playing percentages as pressing the entire game is not always the most logical strategy to use.

Every SBL player plays defense and works hard during practices and on court whilst also working hard at their OWN JOBS, AS IN AN ACTUAL JOB. Every team has different defensive strategies and every single person who steps on court works their butts off and everyone involved with the programs work hard behind the scenes also.

I know personally we did everything we could, to confuse teams by throwing switches and hard shows on different guys and our scouts were as extensive as they get. By all means, you can have a look at them and even come down for a run at Pre-Season if you would like to. Lots of people love to bag out the players and volunteers involved, yet do not realise the time and effort that goes in to us getting on court.

This goes for every damn SBL player and volunteer, cause even the players are volunteers for the most part as well, as many are not paid.

I think one weekend off is a great idea, no reason you cant have a weekend off for the players/coaches and organisers and still maintain the season length.

TBH the length of season is too long youre right. I understand people like to play the same team twice but could easily make it 4 weeks shorter. Or two weeks shorter and then give people one of more than one long weekends off.

Its not a matter of getting smashed at metros. People have families, partners, butt buddies etc that they would like to enjoy their time with. It makes sense havin a week off and coming back reinvigorated.

@Bogan I understand where you are coming from. But 80% of the league doesnt get paid and the SEABL a more professional league, regardless of skill level but financially, allows it so theres no reason why it can't be implemented here.

I think the key word IS semi, theres no reason why everyone cant be accounted for in this regard.

I think coaches would probably be resonable people and make corret decicions like, a fully timed game on Thursday night, then an extra session somewhere else over the weekend which is way easier to handle than a official game at 8pm on a saturday and then another on the sunday

man...some of these people are so salty at the league, your ramblings about 48 minutes make Squidwards clarinet soundhalf decent. 40 mins is here, its going to stay, in 12 months you wont even think twice about it.

Australia is affiliated with FIBA, it plays FIBA-governed internationals games. NBL is 40 mins. If the SBL is trying to be a mechanism for AUSTRALIAN basketball growth and development, then it should mimic a FIBA game.

Life happens and its all about changing and adapting. They smoked my boy Harambe and now we're left to pick up the pieces. I'm sure the SBL community and the @Loveforthegame's of the world can find some sort of coping tool now that they wont see the court...

Yes right anonymous.. Yet you present Ethical Egoism the lowest form of thinking, not even teaching the level of rationality. Your opinion = your own self interest!So don't sell me your opinion as fact- it's not!

Let's look at facts- what has the effect of 48-40 min change been on the nbl?A) Closer more exciting games, b) the sport becomes more popular to families who want a 90 minutes game not 2+ hours. C) The game is much faster paced and more meaningful possessions.

I know Moses Malone used to play 48 mins in the 80's but it was a much slower game.

Maybe getting the hint now or live in denial you ignorant fool.

And before you start your egotistical vitriol understand what I say above is not my opinion just fact that has been researched.

Sleepless night.. Here's one for you players- lobby to get some midweek games (ala East Coast state leagues) instead of only playing weekends.

That would make more games and less practices! The dullard egoists would like the sound of that surely it serves their only concern- themselves. Here also is the great part- it would be good for the sport too!

If you are really serious, it's much better to make a sound, logical and sensible argument about something but rather you aim to pervert the course of the worlds greatest game because a few selfish veterans don't want to change the way they play.

God forbid it might be more running and fitness required for a more intense faster moving game.

Call it for what it is. SBL is a veterans a league that is frightened of the same change that has happened everywhere else in the world!

SBL forced to change to 40 minute games or lose funding from BA. forget all the spin about it being for families and to increase the excitement blah blah blah. Simply comes down to $$$ from BA being pulled if they didnt align.

Good idea on midweek games. Suburban teams would likely be the main benefactors. But let's say regional neighbours like East perth vs stirling or mandurah vs rockingham could be on a Weds night. Shortens the season by a month with 4-6 midweek games per year. Sounds like it would be worth investigating

Mid Week games will never work, for the simple reason that 90% of the players in the League work full time gigs and it's hard enough getting to a Friday night game let alone a weds night match as well. Then there is the fatigue factor... Team has a double header in week 4, they train tues and Thurs but this week also have a weds night game in there too. Then they have a Saturday night game in Gero or Kal. Let's remember they are SEMI-professional players. That would be four games in seven days plus a heap of travel included for good measure as well

On top of all that, there is the simple fact that stadium availability for most if not all clubs during the winter months would be at a premium due to sbl trainings, wabl trainings, domestic trainings, domestic games, other sports using courts (netball / volleyball / soccer)... Put plain and simply you wouldn't or couldn't get a court - Heck half the metro clubs dislike Fri night home games, imagine what they'd be like for a weds night game?!

and yes I agree for crying out give the players a long weekend or two off during the regular season. They are this games greatest asset, we need to realise this and should be looked after, even though they say silly things from time to time.

Saying it would "never" work is the kind of thinking that prevents the growth of this league. With a little bit of attention to detail on the fixturing, there is no reason why clubs couldn't use their usual Tues/Thurs training slot to host a game instead. Teams who play midweek would not then play double headers the following weekend (although I really don't see too much of an issue playing Tues/Fri/Sat).

It would be an easier way fit more games into a shorter period and would be far less taxing than a player playing 2 games within 48 hours (as per a regular double header).

It works with other leagues around AUS who are also semi professional.

Agree with the above. Its not like this would be an every week thing.. you could do this say 2 or 3 times a season and would drop a few weeks off the length of the season/allow for a long weekend off here or there.

While we're all thinking outside the box, how about this for a finals structure? All contests are 1-game eliminations. Top two teams at the end of the regular season have a bye in the first round of finals and go straight through to the quarters, seeded 1 and 2. The first round sees 3v14, 4v13, 5v12, 6v11, 7v10, and 8v9. Winners advance to the quarters. It would have a March Madness flavour, and embrace single game eliminations rather than the current combination of 3-game series and a sudden-death championship game. Thoughts?

what he said^^. there are some stadiums that run games on a weekday from mid afternoon till 10 pm. Imagine the nightmare of a Perry Lakes midweek game. The court may be avail but what about the parking for spectators etc

The biggest issue about trying to reduce the weeks is when Kalgoorlie and Geraldton and involved, you really need 20 weeks to fill their schedule.

Metro teams can play midweek or have a single friday night game but for those two, the only way you can avoid the 20th week is playing a triple header on the road, which they did for a number of years from memory, or have double headers at home, which then means someone has to travel and play regionally on a Friday or a Sunday.

In all reality, if the biggest whinge is players want a weekend off, your club can request to play more Friday night fixtures.... Simple.

I am quite happy with the way the structure is now days. Having mid week games can be beneficial or detrimental to specific teams based around what certain team members do in regards to work.

Just to cover what someone stated earlier about statistics show that moving to 40 minutes is good. Where are these stats coming from?

As far as I am aware, Basketball which was at its peak in the late 80's and 90's was 48 minutes, it also had much higher participation rates throughout the world and nationally also. The fall in the 00's had a lot to do with the NBA and how it was marketed (losing Jordan hurt basketball) Then when Lebron entered and Kobe rose to the top it had a large increase again. It has nothing to do with the game going to 40 minutes. Soccer is the most watched sport in the world and goes for 90 minutes. more than double Basketball. A game of NFL goes for bloody 24 hours when watching (Jokes) but its more than double our game. These sports make basketball look ridiculous. AFL goes for 27-33 minutes per quarter depending on things, yet have thousands more fans than we do. SO dont understand the argument for less time personally.

@Farrison Hord- the first logical and rational thing said on here.[email protected] has used many adjectives to colour his opinion into his poor command of the English language- clear to see he is totally against it. However, he does raise some good points for considering once you remove his personal agenda.

Regarding a weekend off, what's wrong with a player referendum? Could be done by email at next to no cost before the simpletons chime in. But then again the officialdom in this league have demonstrated time and again over the years that it seldom gives a shit about the players do they! Maybe it's about time they did.

I will grant the location and logistics mean the country teams cannot do this without some type of adjustment. So what is wrong with two to four weekends a year the country teams play two metro teams at home on a weekend. It could be a Saturday night, Sunday day game scenario? Again for the simpletons- they do this already on the road trips, surely it must be easier at home.

Then all suburban teams play 4 of its fixtures on a midweek game.

Subject to court availability (has anyone made these enquiries?) this could be possible is what I am deducing quite logically.

Poor command of the English language... JR you are about as funny as one of your boy Lacko's attempts to beat a zone defense. And FYI no personal agenda as you suggested, but it's clear from your earlier posts you have to attack and be controversial or you don't feel relevant or important, so you go on and keep doing you champ.

Outside of Bendat, you only have four venues which MAY be able to hold a midweek fixture because they are run by the clubs - Cockburn, Willo, Lakeside & Warwick. As of next season, the Wolves wont be running their new home so that puts them out. My perspective is why do you need the midweek fixture? Do the players as a MAJORITY want to lose yet another night four times a season to Basketball, better yet do their loved ones want to lose that time when they already sacrifice most weekends between March and September! Also regarding families not attending midweek games, if your club has imports or pays players, then they want as many people to watch their games as possible to help alleviate the financial costs of having such players in your team. If little Johnny has footy practice on a Monday, wabl training on a Tuesday, domestic game on a Thursday, good luck trying to convince mum or dad they now need to give up a Wednesday as well to go watch SBL... You know because there is this thing called school which is half important, or work for parents too the next day, that might cause a problem too. As someone else said, if you want a weekend off - then tell your club to ask for more Friday night games.

The Sunday country game for a second metro team is just not cost or time effective. You still need accommodation Saturday night as you wouldn't travel up on the Sunday unless you for up, then if you're one of the teams who still make the journey by bus, let's say it's to Kalgoorlie... That has you finishing your game at 2pm. By the time you are showered, fed, got some 'consumables' for the seven to eight hour trip home, you're not leaving up there until at least 3pm. You now want players to get home on a Sunday night no less, at 10, 11, 12pm... Then expect to go to work the next day, and let's not even start on if players from the team have wabl commitments they've just missed out on because commissioner JR had this season fantastic idea.

I agree there are ways the League can improve, but midweek games are definitely not one of them.

Being a player from the league it makes sense having a weekend off. Every other league has it and why wouldn't we have player and coach wide vote on the topic?

This should actually be used more frequently. I would like to see at the end of every season a league wide survey about what worked and what didnt and then BWA can at least get an actual understanding.

I have been saying this for years, for the league to actually talk to players and ask for advice and ideas. People who eat, sleep and breath basketball for the last 25 years of their lives.

Ask for a review of the league and clubs should be doing the same thing also. Some more professional tams in the league have a season review at the end of every season and discuss things with players and staff. They work together hand in hand.

The SBL should do the same and have scheduled meetings with every team as a whole and discuss things of the future and possible upgrades or updates to things and ask for opinions and advice. Never know the actual players who play the game might have some input as to how the league could be improved to suit everyone.

there is a diffence between country players and city players - the country boys don't whinge about jumping in a car and going for a drive.the city boys are like " are we their yet ".leave the country boys do their thing.that's why we need the country vs city all -star games . then they might start playing for something. instead of the micky mouse cup.

@[email protected], your first paragraph is baseless accusations. You reveal your insecurities here. I am not attacking or being controversial in any way, shape or form. I have made casaul observations and called for comment, nothing more Sunshine! Check that word it was casaul not to be confused with casual.

School me- haha good luck with that. You will never win an intelligent argument with me, you should realise this by now.

So the only thing stopping midweeks game are financial reasons?Are the imports paid by the week or per game by teams be it country or otherwise?A shorter season means they would be less expensive and much less expensive if paid per week. Also factor in shorter term accommodation costs plus other ancillaries and there is a saving. Has anyone actually costed these out as proof or should we continue to rely on self serving personal opinions masquerading as concern for the common cause.

Commissioner- never! I wouldn't last even 5 minutes as I would not align with any factions that have pre existing self serving interests. So they would all get together to get rid of me very quickly. People in general do not like to think and even less like those who dare to question and cause them to have to think. Just look how I wind up these semi conscious piles of redundant protoplasm with simple yet casaul observations. Yet we wonder why the world is the way it is.

cant we just leave the league the way it is? Why do we need overhauls so drastic. I get that the player would like a weekend off, but really if you want to play at this level then you have to accept the structure that is in place.

Saying you need to accept the structure in place is the reason nothing has changed except for 48 to 40 for approximately 30 years.

If better leagues like the SEABL and similar leagues like the big V and Waratah league can do it why the hell shouldn't we especially if the players enjoy it... AND THE FUGING PLAYERS MAKE THE LEAGUE POSSIBLE

Midweek will NOT get off the ground. The majority of Clubs will not even consider it.

They are not going to give up nights of guaranteed revenue from social competitions to maybe get 20-50 people come watch.

Then you have the issues of the Support Staff, Refs, Scorebench Officials, Physios etc etc. This is before you even look at Player/Coach availability.

Until every Club has their own Stadium with 6-8 Courts, it is a non-starter.

With regards to a Bye weekend for the entire League, this gets brought up here every year. If every player asked their SBL Director and President to ask the SBL to do it, then you might get change. Until that day, nothing will happen.

Knowing what Adam and the SBL/BWA Team have to go through to formulate a fixture, it will require sacrifices from Clubs that have previously been 100% unwilling to budge on anything except things that benefit them directly.

I agree with Trav, change is required, change is necessary. But it needs to be change that is plausible and possible.

We have added Junior pathways to get more participation at WABL level. Perhaps it's time to look at expanding and actually supporting D-League, instead of casting it aside at a separate venue? Used correctly it can be a great avenue for aspiring Players, Coaches and Officials to get valuable match practice. With more and more Games having 3 Refs, we need to have somewhere they can train and be evaluated more often, why not at a D-League level with proper evaluations and input? It's got to help them.

@random DW mate. In literally a month when the fixture is released everyone will shut up and start talking about player movement which is what THIS forum is half good for.

All this BS about player surveys and players having all this experience about the league and how basketball should work. Players play. Coaches coach. Administrators ADMINISTER. if you have an issue, don't wait until news drops and be reactive, be PROACTIVE and approach your club admin or president. All 12 associations where briefed on the implications of 48 > 40 minute change and asked for feedback and guess what. NOTHING. So it got passed.

Kanye: "hands up, we just doing what the cops taught us" ... BWA literally just did what 12 association told them to do.

Kalgoorlie said that they needed to be a part of D League, and fought for it. Guess what. THEYRE IN D LEAGUE.

If you want something done, don't wait for the league to run a survey, go take control of your league and make a change. Do you think the NBA surveys its players?! No way. There is an NBA players association. Maybe form an SBL players association and stuff will actually get done. Or are you scared that your views might not reflect the whole playing group and then you'll be singled out as the one out of touch. Every club has an email address and so does Adam at BWA. I suggest you get off these forums and put pen to paper in a more constructive setting.

I know Willeton does not practice on there court both days either does Bunbury, Redbacks don't East Perth no days at Morley. You would be surprised how many teams don't actually practice on the courts they play on during games I would say that most teams get 1 practice in on the actual court they will play a game on since they usually split with the girls.

"All this BS about player surveys and players having all this experience about the league and how basketball should work. Players play. Coaches coach. Administrators ADMINISTER. if you have an issue, don't wait until news drops and be reactive, be PROACTIVE"

People are trying to be proactive.There is little to no communication between the league administration and the organizations it comprises. Granted it should go both ways but why cant BWA announce that they are open to suggestions or even ask the players from each team. They are always around no reason why a conversation can't be brought up.

The most sustainable question raised here has been about a bye weekend which I think would help the league a lot.

As for the head aches with scheduling. Whats an extra couple of hours and negotiations for a long term better and more sustainable league.

Its really frustrating when people say that when you are asking for things to get better that its deemed having a winge and that you should go out there and do it yourself. At the end of the day the avenues available to make change in this league are extremely restrictive and i don't know if that's because of an old framework or reluctance to change but you we can see when steps are made, like the minutes, clubs will participate. It shouldn't be entirely up to the players to do this it should be in done WITH the league.

can we discuss whats happening with the teams. Still many without coaches, a fair bit of players who may or may not be moving clubs. Feels like we havent had any news about anything except the damn bye weekend that some want.

Is Nix still the coach of Perry Lakes? There has been no updates on this at all. Didnt they finish their applications like 2 weeks ago? Surely with all the major coaches almost locked up they have made a decision.

I think random hit a nerve with adam ford. he did bring up a valid point about rhys being development player when adam was east perth coach - from memory wasnt sunday dech a development player too that year. Maybe random is onto something, that cant be just a coincidence. For the record I would have garlepp any day over hire, and gliddon or even jackson hussey over wroe or kenny

Nah hes such a good sport and so humble. He has worked so hard to get that team of nobody's to be champions. I mean Bradd Robbins, Greg Hire, Seb Salinas, Damien Matacz, Trian Illiadis and those boys learned all their skills and how to play basketball from Ben Ettridge, they had no knowledge of the game and they are nothing without him.

Have they retired from the board or is their directorate up. Mel Van Lit is representing the Van Lit family. Can't imagine her resigning. If no one applies for a directorate and its up for grabs TVL will try to get back on .This must be stopped at all costs.

Re Nener as coach He will do a good job, he will have the respect of senior players eg Bob DT Della and Stevie .Maybe two new players now coach is Nener. Only one retiring is Sheldon, if his knee comes good he may be back.

Think you will find that Goode is shopping himself around to all clubs but the smart clubs are saying No Thanks. Lots of issues at Cockburn during SBL season. Also all the Van Lit haters need to stop and look at the time and effort Mr & Mrs Van Lit have put into Cockburn over the many years they have been involved. I can remember Mr Van Lit training Cockburn WABL teams over 20 years ago. That is a lot of their own time and effort and not even coaching their own children back then. Some people need to get off their bums and help out and stop bagging the people who do or have done for many years at no cost to the clubs.

put in effort to drive out players and coaches? put in effort to have their own personal agendas met? put in an effort to sit in the stands and sledge the playing group and the coaches? Yeah they put in an effort being absolute meatheads

Goode has signed with East Perth apparently after multiple messages and phone calls to not take on board a player who has left Cockburn with a large amount of money owing from him. He racked up fines and fines from other things which he has and will not pay. He still owes money to some cockburn faithful from what i have heard. And much much more.

The fact anyone would want to sign someone who comes with more baggage than a United Boeing 747 flight is beyond me.

If East Perth were smart, they would talk to players and coaches who have dealt with him and they know will be honest with them. No beating around the bush. It does make you think just how special it was that Cockburn could still win a championship without Gavin Field and all the crap they apparently had to go through with Goode on and off the court.

why should Cockburn have to suck it up? the fact Cockburn didn't release him like other teams would have allowed him to complete a full season which apparently he hasn't done in a long time due to being let go for obvious reasons.

He would be sitting at home in America if Cockburn didn't bring him out. He didn't need to sign the contract for nothing, but he did sign it and it clearly states specific things. So if Cockburn didn't keep him around (lucky for him) he wouldn't have played. Cockburn could have gone out and got another import who was already practicing with them.

Goode has Parsons and Francis to thank for a lot plain and simple. And hes even burnt those bridges. Cockburn were already trying to get themselves back on track financially and added costs from fines doesn't really help them out any. He should be a MAN about it and actually own up to mistakes and stupidity.

Easiest way for Cockburn to get their finances back on track again was to spend a little more this year and have a team that was ready to go back to back. Success leads to greater opportunities for financial gain. Sadly that has been lost.

I doubt guys many guys will follow to Perry Lakes. Most of that core are in the later years of their careers and they have good chemistry already and a new coach who is respected amongst them. New chapter for both clubS.

I'm keen to see how this hawks team goes now. IMO they have been SERIOUS under achievers for the past couple of years. With that group of aussie guys they should have been contending, I guess their import choices have let them down considerably.

Give them two strong imports and now a good coach, predicting top 2 for them next year.

Top 2 finish is a bit rich. It takes time to get a team together and in sync. I think if they finish top 4 then thats a start. They have to be able to build some chemistry and some identity in the first season.

Don't know about that. The local core is not that strong with maybe only Purser, Smith and Garlepp being decent SBL standard. The last two are quite inconsistent. They drop off a lot after these guys. Carlwell and Hobbs were ok. Nix new what they would give the team and their numbers were what were expected.

think a few of the critics are a a bit harsh on Nix, Hobbs was injured only played half the games last year and few of them left handed only, and Carlwell was not fit for at least first 3/4 of season (if fit at all)

Apparently Pesava and Garlepp played in that 3 on 3 thing together? He'd be a good pick up for Plakes. Maybe the guard import from cockburn would go. Plakes surely have more money to offer than cockburn.

Do you guys just make shit up? seriously just because a coach changes teams doesnt mean that his team are going to follow. Cockburn have a lot to look forward to. The Palying group is still pretty darn good and Im sure Nener has a few guys who want to follow him to add to it

pesava is 1 and done in college. only has 1 year eligiblity. he would be a strong possibility to come back and play for parsons

Parsons has shown he knows how to effectively use a big lumbering big man in the sbl. if Hawks were to pick up Carlwell as an aussie and then collect 2 quality imports they would be pretty tough with the compliment of aussies still on hand.

Yes Adekponya has gone to the D League. He made an impact playing in an overseas tourney and got some attention. Not sure if he will be playing next year in the SBL. He is an Aussie.Has played around the world and has played in the NBL were he was a development player for Cairns and then also an injury replacement for the Crocs. He is from Cairns originally.

To the whingers - if you want a bye, have 20 of them and just don't play. Give your spot to a junior who would actually appreciate it rather than someone who clearly doesn't and feels their commitment to a semi-pro league that was here way before them and will still be here well after their woeful attempt at a career, is too much to commit to for six months. Cry me a f'ing river! You're all probably the type who need handouts of mum and dad to live your lavish lives of selfies and dab parties. And stop dressing up as clowns, unless your name is Ronald and you're selling big macs

To the person who posed as me... You idiot. Have the balls to post under your own name. For the record, I see the pros and cons of both arguments. Week off essentially just means an extra double header, if clubs and coaches don't mind that - then it's hard to see what the fuss is all about really

In response to Anonymouuuuse i dont agree with the the DT comment either but dont drag other people in to the argument . Cant comment on Tupea or Land but Aaron Ralph only refused to shake hands with Goodes as did most of the Buccs simlpy as payback.He did that during the season on two occasions ..

To be fair, he's an import, he should be paid. Almost all the others are paid at least a base salary (at the respectable clubs). The others do their best to organise other sources of income for their players.

To be fair, to Cockburn, if he was dumb enough to sign a contract stating no money and he would have to find work because he came out on this amazing thing called a work visa, then perhaps he should actually WORK.

Goode was amazing for Cockburn no doubt offensively, but games are won on the defensive end. and luckily for Cockburn Joondalup's Huntington 5-18 and 2-10 from 3pt land where not one time was Goode out to guard him.

"As mentioned on here before.Perry Lakes are an 8-10th ranked team.That is where they been the last 3-4yrs."

the last 3 or 4 years they also had Nix as coach (good coach but parsons just won back to back coach of the year last 2 years and the championship, despite most people thinking they wouldnt even make the playoffs)

Carlwell now being an Aussie allows them to get 2 more imports.

Parsons is a great recruiter and I GUARENTEE there will be Aussies that move clubs to play for him at Hawks. Keep in mind Parsons is the U20 men state coach for 2017. Dont be suprised if you see one or two of those boys suit up for Hawks next year.

You watch Pesava come back from college and don a blue and white uni.

It is safe to say Hawks will not be the team they have been for the last 3-4 years

Seen Marcus Goode out at the clubs with that Lisa girl that used to date the other black guy from stirling. Good to see the guy with no money to pay a club back can go out and get drunk. Must have just milked more money off people.

yeah willo go after everyone with their open cheque book. Vague is being sought after Cockburn but cannot see him leaving East Perth as they have the wildcats ties. Cockburn have ties with local pubs and not much else.

They did get Chan back recently, so will be interesting to see who Nener goes with at the PG spot and the 2 spot.

Perry lakes looking the goods early on. Two imports plus Carlwell, and the usual suspects there also. Parsons will recruit very well as usual.

^^^^ absolutely stirring shit re Cockburn. No one is leaving. A few guys around the league rumored, wanting or thinking about joining. As far as retiring McIntyre and Prince are the only ones to confirm 100%.

Seva is back at Cockburn and don't know how you get DT as a back up. just cause he didnt average 18-22 ppg doesnt mean he isn't a starter. He took less shots to sacrifice for the team as he would get the ball to Lane and Field and Goode. Exceptional scorers.

DT has put on weight in the offseason as he has been doing nothing but drinking and celebrating a championship. Last year was in great shape and you can bet your bottom dollar he will be again by time season comes around especially if he travels to the hawks to follow parsons as rumoured. The work he puts in off court is phenomenal so can't talk trash about the guy if he has a few weeks off and relaxes to enjoy himself and his family after a long year. I am sure many players do the same and all in different measures. As for Della and prince I don't think anyone knows what those two are doing. Prince apparently had another kid so could be done. Della will stick around I think if they have a team to challenge.

Not just talking about Jem i dont even know her, people hanging crap on her, DT, Easley or anyone else just for doing something they love. Im sure some of the comments about certain coaches and players being flogs ect could be true its your perception, but if so why make those comments and take yourself down to their level shoe some integrity and self respect.

Have an opinion for sure but if you have nothing nice to say dont say anything.

Im sure there are plenty on this forum who have achieved little yet are so quick to tear someone else down.

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Every time the Slammers sign a new player, they lose 1 or 2 local players who suffer a reduction in minutes. Look at Jason Smith, Paddy Phillips etc. Could get we'll be Wortho and Hitchy this year which spells trouble now and in the future

Yeah look lads we've had discussions with each other and prue about a comeback but I'm having some side effects with some new products my friend Jon's mum recommended me, plus dad has told us he's sick of hanging around the lower class at away games, particularly East Perth and Rockingham. Given he only drives a BMW or an Audi, you can hardly blame him. Best of luck to all the champs goin about it next season and remember to hit the gym hard, and make sure you have good supplements and shakes afterwards, recovery is the key - oh and a couple of million dollars to make it rain at the club!

I'm off to see what Chubby Sof and the old man are spending my inheritance on. Peace out

Joondalup will Joondalup,Cockburn without two imports and the possible retirements/leaving of key members will take a tumble. Perry Lakes will improve out of sight with a new coaching staff and some serious recruiting. Willeton looking to spend will bolster an already impressive team on paper, Stirling will improve with general growth of their young guys,Buccs in Gero will be tough for every team. EP looking to spend $$$ to build a team. Will only go as far as team chemistry can allow. Slammers will have a potent starting 5 but no bench - the other teams young can raffles for 9-14.

I rate DT highly but expecting him to have to play 30 mins a game is really not a good idea anymore. What bench depth do the have now? Hayto gone, Peseva away, Holmes looking less like an SBL player every time he steps on the court. They just dont have it this season unless they go out and recruit two flat out insane imports. With barely enough money in the kitty for one thats going to be a stretch.

the top 6 guys for Cockburn are going to get flogged to death this season. Cant see them playing at the pace the stacked teams are going to play without some bench depth. Teams like Tigers, Wolves and Hawks are going to be 10 legit players deep.

The best NAIA player was Payne and he played NAIA to play with his dad I believe. My issue is NAIA players can usually score but are dumb as rocks. Cannot remember plays and have no structure. It really is a personal opinion but there is always a reason they play NAIA I guess the important thing is to find out why they did was it grades, attitude, personal reasons etc.

Great way to pigeon hole an entire group based on their selection of education Insider. Based off your logic everyone from Joondalup or Perry Lakes is rich, everyone from Rockingham is a criminal and everyone from kalgoorlie works on the mines then yeah? Enjoy your glass house you clown

Waters won the highest accolade at Waylan last year for student athletes. Its takes into account acedemics and playing He is smart and can play ball. Hes just a smaller guard than what teams in the Div 1 generally look for. If he doesnt work out then they will bring someone else in. Its not like they dont have time or options

Good I am glad they did there research that is my whole point not all NAIA players are bad eggs but there is always a reason. Some clubs do better research than others when it comes to this. Definitely deserves a chance no doubt about that.

The kid wouldnt play for Ty if he wasnt a good kid. Ty is a class act and holds his players to a high level im sure. This kid will be fine! Any coach with the connections with the SBL would be doing the same thing, pushing his players names to coaches.

Australian NAIA players don't count as they can't gain eligibility in most cases for NCAA due to whatever reason. Royal Crouch was a bone head couldn't remember a set and was a terrible teammate. Of course there are good NAIA players I am saying that there is a reason why they are playing NAIA and you need to find that out before signing them. Same goes for JUCO players NCAA schools call them instant offense and no D for a reason. Of course there are exceptions to every rule I am just letting you know the truth and how it works in the USA.

Sorry insider but you couldn't be more wrong regarding NAIA. Junior colleges yes but NAIA schools are comparable to NCAA div 2 in terms of talent and academics.

Entry requirements for NAIA schools may be slightly less cumbersome (largely due to the significant regulations and excessive bureaucracy associated with the NCAA) but the NAIA schools themselves and the academic standards you must maintain are often superior to NCAA div 2.

I didn't say the universities were less academic I said they went there for certain reasons that is all and the real question was why? Were they simply over looked, were they too small, too dumb, hurt, whatever. Settle down now back to SBL Free Agency yeoooowwwww!!!

Yes BC will be a Hawk as a naturalised player. Saw him the other day and he is looking 100% better than what he did last season. Has really taken up the challenge thrown at him by PL Coaches to be fit all year

I didnt think so....How could he be. Your telling me he hasnt left Australia for 2-3 years in a row...

I dont know what you must do for this to become a reality but I seriously doubt its TRUE.

Speaking of which...Could M Haney be a backup BIG for the Kalgoorlie boys ( Similar to Matacz a few years ago with Wolves)Give them 8-10 mins a game - 5 pts 4 reb 2 ast and his knowledge could be massive if this could happen.

Which is the worst SBL court in the League:Lakeside? Kalamunda? Rockingham? East Perth?

What is the next step for the SBL:Women's teams in Geraldton & Kalgoorlie?SBL back in Albany?New club in Butler/Alkimos to cater for the expanding northern corridor?Merging clubs at SBL level to create a more competitive League?League to move to Conferences to shorten season and save clubs cash on less road trips each season?

Biggest rivalry in the league has to be the battle of egos between grist & s diconza whenever they ref together! made even worse if m hughes is the third official :-/worst court either rockingham with their sh!t rings and it's way too open or kalamunda with there feral supporters and shoebox sized changerooms

Having played against teams over there and teams over here its simple. The top 4-6 teams of each league is on par together, however its when you drop below that is where it becomes a big difference. There are no Kalamunda Suns or Lakesides of this year over there. There are not teams that are so bad that when we watch the game we choose to scratch our eyes out.

BC will be naturalised by the start of season. It has been happening behind the scenes for a while now. PL could potentially have two imports to add to the roster as well. This team is going to have some talent. Thats not even including the Aussie players not already in the squad that are looking to hook up with them. They will be very very deep and interchangeable at every position

"In my 25 years in the SBL, Richard is genuinely in the top 2 most athletic and exciting players I have seen,and I am certain that both the club and the game will be better for his arrival. Such sporting gifts aside, heis also a high-quality individual with strong and established values, a great fit for our club's culture"Ettridge concluded.

Ok, this kids looks athletic / strong and no doubt he will be a force inside.

Career 52% FT shooter. Anyone with a smart / strong defender thats able to keep him off the glass and a few meters away from hoop and anything easy you use your BIGS 10+ fouls and knock him to the ground everytime then I dont think he will be one of the TOP 2 most effective imports BENNY. Just another jumping jack who can lift 130Kilos

Have been welcomed to Tigerland with open arms. Can't wait to play with my boys Damo and Kyle. Going to be epic. Kyle certainly is good guy and a good basketballer. Wish me luck everyone. Thanks for the support. Hopefully Damo cuts his hair, lol! Just kidding Damo, you know how we joke around LOL.

clayton, benson, jones .!! wow there is some firepower. bactovic,jakens,wallbutton import.that's a good squad indeed .what about the other teams.rocko,hawks,magic,suns lynx players etc any players missing or added.

Lol the Slammers aren't making playoffs, no bench, Ben Smith will regress, Clive is nothing since his ACL, Teny ain't all that and Tre and Brian will be burnt into the ground. No one else on the roster means anything

How much will a 40 min a game effect stats this season. Looking at the NBL there are only 3 players in the league averaging 7 rebounds a game. Are we looking at the leaders in pts being around 24-25 and 8-9 Reb or could we be looking at a bit more?